Pétros ení: Saint Peter’s Digital Experience, where “Pétros ení” in Greek means “Peter is here”, is a new immersive experience set up inside Saint Peter’s Basilica. The exhibition is the result of a collaboration between Fabbrica di San Pietro, Microsoft, and Iconem, with the aim of offering visitors a unique journey through the history and spirituality linked to the Basilica.

The exhibition itinerary unfolds inside the Octagonal Halls, historic spaces located within one of the pillars supporting the Dome. These halls have been carefully restored and opened to the public for the first time for this occasion.

The narrative develops along two main threads: one reveals the origins and construction of the Basilica around the tomb of Saint Peter, while the other guides visitors through the key moments of the Apostle’s life up to his martyrdom. The story of Peter is closely intertwined with that of the Basilica, presented through its transformations across the centuries.

The full experience lasts approximately 60 minutes and includes check-in at the meeting point, the transfer to the Octagonal Halls, the immersive exhibition (approx. 30 minutes), and access to the Vatican Grottoes, from where the self-guided Basilica tour with the Digital Audio Guide begins.

Each tour accommodates a maximum of 14 participants, even from different bookings. Children aged 6 and under are not counted toward the maximum limit.

- Summer hours: daily, every 60 minutes from 08:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m.

- Winter hours: daily, every 60 minutes from 08:30 a.m. to 03:30 p.m.

The visit is conducted in English, except for the 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. time slots, which are available in Italian.

Yes, there is a reduced rate for youths aged 7 to 17. Children aged 6 and under participate free of charge.

The visit is recommended for children aged 6 and up. Children and teens under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking is not mandatory but strongly recommended, as daily availability is limited.

Online bookings can be made up to 48 hours before the scheduled visit. It is not possible to book for the same day or the two days prior to the visit.

No, it is not possible to modify the name, date, or time once the booking is confirmed. Please carefully check all details before finalizing your purchase.

You will receive an email with the QR Codes up to 48 hours before your visit. Please check your spam and junk folders as well.

You must arrive at the online booking access point, marked by the Gazebo in Saint Peter’s Square, at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time, to allow for security checks and QR Code verification. The email with the QR Codes includes a map showing all access points along the dedicated route.

Entry after your scheduled time is not permitted. In case of delays, admission will be denied and the ticket will not be valid or refundable. Visitors are therefore strongly advised to respect their scheduled time slot.

The online booking includes:

- Personalized time slot

- Elevator access to the level of the Octagonal Halls

- Visit to the multimedia installation Pétros ení: Saint Peter’s Digital Experience

- Access to the Vatican Grottoes

- Entry to Saint Peter’s Basilica

- Digital Audio Guide for the Basilica visit

Bags, backpacks, and cameras are not allowed inside the Octagonal Halls. Taking photos or videos inside the immersive exhibition is strictly prohibited.

During the Jubilee period, some services are suspended. Currently, there is no cloakroom available, only a stroller storage area located under the portico of the Basilica.

Phones are allowed, but you may not use them to take photos or record videos during the exhibition.

Yes, the ticket includes a warning about the risk of photosensitive epilepsy, as the immersive exhibition features video content with light effects. Backpacks and bags are not permitted inside the exhibition areas.

Yes, the experience includes video projections that may contain flashing lights or visual effects that could trigger reactions in individuals with photosensitive epilepsy. Maximum caution is advised.

No, visitors are not allowed to access Pétros ení: Saint Peter’s Digital Experience independently. From the meeting point, guests are escorted by staff along a designated route. Entering the exhibition without authorized personnel or separating from the group is not allowed.

Follow the dedicated signage or ask for help from authorized staff, easily identifiable by their yellow vests. The meeting point is inside the Welcome Area, right after the Testimonium desk.

Additionally, the email with your QR Codes (sent within 48 hours of your visit) includes a detailed map with directions to the meeting point.

Late arrivals will not be admitted under any circumstances. Entry is strictly tied to the reserved time slot. If you miss your appointment, the ticket will not be valid or refundable.

Yes, the visit to Saint Peter’s Basilica with the Digital Audio Guide is included in the Pétros ení: Saint Peter’s Digital Experience reservation.

At the end of the exhibition, visitors will be escorted to the Welcome Area to begin the self-guided tour of the Basilica, which starts 60 minutes after the scheduled entry to Pétros ení: Saint Peter’s Digital Experience. The route starts at the Vatican Grottoes and includes 12 stops, with a total duration of about 60 minutes.

Yes, visitors are advised to maintain silence and respectful behavior throughout the experience. You must always follow the instructions of authorized staff, and it is not permitted to leave the group during the visit.

For further clarification or support with your booking, our Visitor Assistance team is available to answer any additional questions.

You can contact us by email at booking@basilicasanpietro.va or call the Online Booking Office at +39 06 9612 4006.